Cases of skin diseases spike as temperature soars in Mumbai

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The scorching heat in Mumbai is not only causing dehydration, gastric problems, and muscle spasms in people but also skin-related diseases. A majority of people have started experiencing skin problems such as sweating boils, rashes, itching and burning of the skin, hyperpigmentation, acne, and pimples.

It is the need of the hour to consult a dermatologist and take utmost care of your skin. The scorching heat. Dermatologists share more details.

Common skin diseases during summer
Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Shareefa's Skin Care Clinic said, "During the pandemic, the citizens were home-bound due to lockdown and there was no surge in skin-related diseases. However, after the pandemic, people have resumed their daily routine like going to the office, social gatherings and parties, and vacations. This has led to a significant spike in contagious diseases in the skin. There is a 40 per cent rise in skin diseases from April due to soaring temperatures."

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According to Chause, people from all age groups are complaining of sweat boils, fungal diseases, psoriasis and eczema flare-ups, rashes, acne, itching and burning of the skin, hyperpigmentation, pimples, ringworm (tinea corporis), athlete's foot.

These skin conditions often have symptoms such as redness, itchiness and cracked skin between the toes, toenail fungus, yeast infections, skin dryness due to dehydration, and genital rashes.

"The body tends to sweat profusely when there is increased heat and humidity outside. As the sweat gets trapped in the body, one is susceptible to various skin diseases. The sun is so harsh during summer that it can cause red patches and rashes that burn. Even tanning is another problem that is commonly seen in a large number of people. Apart from ringworm, athlete's foot, rashes, acne, pimples, and boil, bacterial infections can also steal one's peace of mind. Bacterial skin infections such as cellulitis, impetigo, and folliculitis are seen due to Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria. Children and adults are the vulnerable populations affected by skin infections," adds Dr Surbhi Deshpande, dermatologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital.

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Tips to keep skin infections at bay
Chause says, ‘‘Shower twice a day. If bathing is not possible then wipe the body with a damp cloth. Change the sweaty clothes and dry your body immediately after a swimming or workout session. Maintain good personal hygiene, and use dusting powder for rashes or other products such as moisturisers, lotions, and creams only after consulting the doctor. Antifungal creams, ointments, gels, sprays, or powders can be used for ringworm and athlete's foot."
Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for hyperpigmentation, remove makeup before sleeping, and wear full-sleeved cotton clothes to prevent tanning and sunburns.

To minimise the impact of tanning, one can take help of the procedures like laser skin rejuvenation, chemical peels, with a skilled and certified dermatologist. To tackle acne and pimples, opt for creams and face washes recommended by the experts.

Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.